The Mpumalanga (MP) School of Excellence took on Game United, concluding the Safa Ehlanzeni U20 league at the Valencia Sports Complex on Sunday, August 3. MP School of Excellence earned the last three points of the season, defeating Game United 3-2.
In the opening minutes, United showed determination to overcome their opponents, but Excellence’s solid defence denied United optimistic chances to take the lead in the first five minutes. Excellence scored the first goal in the fifth minute through Thapelo Khoza, assisted by Innocent Machel, taking the lead.
In the 24th minute, Excellence’s build-up at the back faltered, allowing Tshepo Mogale of United to score. United’s hopes were reignited by Mogale’s goal, putting them on the front foot and applying pressure on Excellence for 10 minutes between the 27th and 37th minutes.
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United’s defender, Blessing Mahlalela, handled the ball in the box, leading the referee to award a penalty in the 39th minute. Sizwe Yende of Excellence took the penalty, but it was saved by United’s goalkeeper, Simphiwe Maseko.
United’s hopes remained alive as they launched a counterattack through their left winger, Lawrence Ngwenya. However, under pressure, Ngwenya’s shot went out of play, resulting in a goal kick for Excellence. Excellence capitalised on this opportunity as Khoza scored his brace, extending the team’s lead to 2-1 at half-time.
In the second half, United dominated. The players were motivated and scored an equaliser in the 54th minute through Mogale. In the 70th minute, Mogale missed a chance to put his team ahead when the ball went over the post.
In response, Excellence introduced fresh legs to manage United’s pressure. After claiming the ball from United’s right wing, Rifumo Nxumalo of Excellence crossed into the box, creating the opportunity for Kabelo Khumalo to score in the 83rd minute. Khumalo’s goal was the match-winner, securing Excellence the title of champions in the Mbombela Stream.
The final score was 3-2. Game United remains at the bottom of the league.
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The results of the league are as follows:
• Black Medal 0-0 TS Matsulu Future Academy
• Junior Spurs 0-2 Fortune Academy
• Idlabantu 6-0 Mataffin Hotspurs
• Fortune Academy 0-0 Mthimba Football Academy
Sinani United’s game against Black Medal was postponed due to a scheduling conflict involving Sinani United players. A new date for the match has yet to be announced.
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emanuelmajola
www.citizen.co.za
